Kumamoto
Aso Nakadake Crater
The Aso caldera, with its rugged lava rock surface, is one of the largest calderas in the world, measuring 18 km east to west and 25 km north to south. Among the five Aso peaks (Mt. Negodake, Mt. Takadake, Mt.
Nakadake is 600 m in diameter and 130 m deep, and its huge crater, 4 km in circumference, provides an up-close view of the dynamic landscape and the violent white plumes of smoke. (During periods of high volcanic activity, the crater may be inaccessible.
Kumamoto Castle
One of the three most famous castles in Japan. Also known as Ginko Castle, it was built by the famous general Kiyomasa Kato over a period of about seven years from 1601 (Keicho 6). It is a vast castle with a perimeter of 5.3 km and a total area of 98 ha. Within the castle, there are 3 towers, 49 turrets, 18 turret gates, and 29 castle gates, and the unique construction techniques using stone walls and natural terrain are fully utilized.
Kusa Senrigahama
Kusasenrigahama is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Aso. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters above sea level, the beach offers an excellent location with a view of Mount Aso Nakadake (Mt. Aso) emitting smoke to the east, a large pond in front of it, and grazing horses walking leisurely on the grasslands. In summer, the area is bright green, and in winter, it is enveloped in a fantastic silvery-white world. The area is popular with many visitors throughout the year, as it offers a different view in each season. The parking area in front of Kusasenri is home to the Aso Volcano Museum, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
Nabigataki Park
The waterfall, with a drop of about 10 meters and a width of about 20 meters, is a popular spot that has been used as a filming location for tea commercials.
It is said that the waterfall was created by a huge eruption about 90,000 years ago that created the Aso caldera, and the way the water cascades down from the mountain steps created by the lava is very graceful, like a curtain. Visitors can enjoy a close-up view of the waterfall by the river or sometimes by entering the back of the waterfall.
Dolphin Watching
This is one of the most popular leisure activities in Amakusa, where you can see approximately 200 wild southern bottlenose dolphins living in the surrounding waters of Futae, Gowa Town, Amakusa City.
Dolphin watching is available throughout the year, and the encounter rate is over 90%. You can observe a school of dolphins swimming at such a close distance that you can almost reach them by reaching out your hand.